Parental guidance

How to keep the kids from going stir-crazy on the road

The thought of a long car trip with children can send little shivers down the spine of most parents, with thoughts of frequent toilet stops, spilt snacks and fighting siblings. Fear not: we’ve rounded up the best, never-fail tips and hacks for a roadtrip free of “are we there yets?”

Savvy tip 1

Don’t be afraid to get off the main roads and highways, Camplify CEO and founder Justin Hales says. “Sometimes, the most exciting adventures are the ones that other people miss,” he says. “Try to get in the habit of taking an unexpected detour every day or so – this can be something your kids will look forward to as they often make for the most memorable moments.”

Savvy tip 2

Plan regular stops for walks or even hikes. Even a 20-minute scenic walk will help you and your family arrive at your destination happier and more relaxed.

Savvy tip 3

A long car trip is not the time to implement a no-screen rule, says Rebecca Mason, author of Holiday Dreaming: The Expert’s Guide to Large Family Travel, owner of Mr Chocolate’s Travel and mother of six. “Embrace technology,” she says. “If all kids have devices with Wi-Fi, EyeSpy can be adapted to Googling interesting facts about the destination or towns you’re passing.”

Savvy tip 4

Giving kids a little control of the trip will help to keep them on task, says Hales. “Use your downtime in the car to research and plan exciting attractions and rest stops to visit in the coming days,” he says. Mason adds: “Even just changing the seating configuration at each stop will help,” she says.

Savvy tip 5

Keeping a journal is a great boredom buster, especially for school-aged kids. They can do it the old-fashioned way, writing in a notebook or diary, or older kids may like to use an app like Journo Travel Journal.